Nithin, K.N. and Mahajanashetti, S.B.
Abstract
Due to the increasing demand for natural rubber across various sectors in India, rubber cultivation has become significantly important. The shift of agricultural land to rubber cultivation from other crops in Kerala, particularly in Wayanad district, has been driven by multiple factors. This study was conducted to investigate the underlying reasons for this shift using a multinomial logistic regression model. The analysis revealed that the likelihood of partially or fully shifting from other crops to rubber is positively influenced by participation in rubber-related extension activities and negatively influenced by the age of the farmer. Therefore, providing targeted training and extension education, especially to younger farmers, could be a highly effective strategy to encourage further expansion of rubber cultivation through area shifts.